Projects

Colostrum is the initial secretion from the mammary gland after parturition and it is a crucial source of immunity and nutrition for
newborn calves. Because of the placental barrier to immunoglobulin transfer in ruminants, colostrum provides the neonate with
immunoglobulins (mainly IgG) essential for passive immunity that plays a key role in the prevention of respiratory and digestive
infections in newborn calves. Colostrum macronutrients (lipids, proteins and carbohydrates) are vital metabolic fuels for newborn
calves in the first days of life. Although, rapid and accurate quantification of colostral IgG and macronutrients levels is required for
dairy producers and companies manufacturing colostrum products, the current available methods are generally time and labor
intensive, non-specific, and frequently inaccurate. It is therefore desirable to develop rapid, cost-effective and accurate tests for
measuring colostrum IgG and macronutrients (fat, protein and lactose) concentrations. The novel Fourier transform infrared
spectroscopy (FTIR) based assay described in this application addresses the shortcomings of the other currently available methods.
Development of infrared-based assay for quantification of colostral IgG and macronutrients will position the applicant as an expert in
the field of colostrum management, and Timeless Veterinary Systems as a leader in the development of innovative medical
technologies.